The Observatory for Forests and Just Transitions is a £1.3 million research programme, funded by the Ford Foundation. The Observatory will study the role land rights play in a just transition to a decarbonised future. Taking place over 3.5 years, the observatory team will combine large-scale geospatial and socioeconomic analyses with in-depth qualitative case studies in Mexico, Brazil and Ghana. A team of GDI researchers (Dr Johan Oldekop and Dr Charis Enns) will lead the observatory’s activities alongside co-investigators at the University of Manchester and the University of Ghana, the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and the Federal University of Pará in Brazil.
As part of this project, we are seeking to appoint a long-term (3 years, flexible start date in 2025) post-doctoral research associate based in the Global Development Institute (GDI) at the University of Manchester. Together with collaborators, you will develop a qualitative research programme to deepen understanding of the relationship between land rights, decarbonisation processes (e.g., critical mineral extraction) and environmental and socio-economic benefits at specific sites in Mexico. As an integral member of the broader Observatory team, you will also help implement the wider programme and its activities.
The primary criterion for appointment will be research excellence. You will be supported and mentored to develop a strong publication profile in a rapid developing research area, as well as benefitting from international network-building (e.g., through fully funded travel and conference attendance opportunities) and tailored professional development opportunities offered by the University of Manchester (e.g., PROSPER Postdoc Career Development Programme). You will also benefit from being part of a large group of multi-disciplinary researchers across diverse career stages within the Resources, Environment and Development research group in GDI.

Please refer the Job description for details